Collectors have been clamoring for a full length work of this type for many, many years, and noted dealer Hugh Shull has finally answered their pleas. Expanding on Grover Criswell's earlier work (Confederate and Southern States Currency), Mr Shull has authored a beautifully illustrated and thoroughly enjoyable book on this often overlooked topic. The book opens with a brief overview of the economic situation that led to the issuance of these notes, followed by several short paragraphs on such topics as the printers, the design choices, the paper used, and the repudiation of the notes by the Federal government following the close of the Civil War. The bulk of the book, over 400 pages, is devoted to the illustration and description of the individual notes. The represented states are arranged alphabetically, each introduced by a short historical commentary, followed by a chronological listing of the notes. When several denominations were issued under the same act, the notes are presented from the largest denomination to the smallest. Each listing features a high quality color illustration of the note (the best in any reference of this type) and a very detailed technical description of the issue, including varieties. A numerical rarity is given which corresponds to an estimated surviving population for the note, followed by two approximate market values (one for average circulated notes, the other for uncirculated pieces). The original Criswell catalog numbers have been retained wherever possible, though the author has changed or eliminated some for clarity and to correct previous errors. A two page bibliography, listing both printed and Internet sources, completes this wonderful reference. Spiral bound for easy use, this book is a must for anyone who studies or collects the fiscal history of this turbulent time.